Corey Perry will make his Edmonton Oilers debut today against the Nashville Predators
Corey Perry will make his Edmonton Oilers debut today against the Nashville Predators
EDMONTON -- The Edmonton Oilers are poised to play their last game before the All-Star break. A win tonight would bring them one win shy of tying the NHL record of 17 consecutive wins.
Another potential first would be the first game for their newest addition - Corey Perry. He confirmed that he will play today - or at least that's what the signs are pointing towards, "that's kind of the plan."
Based on the lines from practice yesterday, Perry will start his first game in an Oilers uniform on a line with Ryan McLeod and Dylan Holloway. This presumed third line will be looking to push the pace and create havoc around the net.
When talking about having two of the team's fastest skaters on the same line as him Perry gave some insight into his strategy with his new line mates.
"They can go get the puck and I can do the rest."
Although he is new, he has put an emphasis on communicating with Holloway and McLeod so they can integrate with each other as best as possible. Perry described this process:
"Talked to them today, especially during practice on different things. Things that I like to do, what they like to do. Try to get a feel for their game."
Depending on who you talk to, this is either the best time to join a team on a 15-game winning streak - or the worst time. On one hand you don't want to upset the chemistry and dynamics of a team that is firing on all cylinders.
On the other hand, you are adding a veteran presence who has won the Stanley Cup and can play anywhere in your lineup. Those are the kind of players you like to add and get going before the end of the regular season.
But coming into the dressing room of a team that is as hot as the Oilers are has it benefits. "when you're winning 15 in a row you're going to be a little bit lighter in the dressing room, a little bit happier." Given everything that's happened in Perry's personal life over the past two months, that's probably a welcomed change.
"It's been a warm welcome for me and I'm excited to really get down to the nitty gritty and play hockey," he told the press (including The Hockey News).
Needless to say, his return to the ice rink will happen later today. When asked about what he's looking forward to the most he had this thoughtful answer:
"Getting back on the ice and doing what I love. [It] was a long road to get back here. There's a lot of self reflecting and going through some things, but I'm excited."
"I'm a kid in a candy shop right now."
Catch Perry play his first game as an Oiler today at 2PM Mountain Time on Sportsnet.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgtJcZ23t4k[/embed]
Visit the Striking Oil Podcast website
Subscribe to the Striking Oil Podcast YouTube Channel
Bookmark The Hockey News Edmonton Oilers team site to never miss an update.
Related: Corey Perry's Oilers Debut is Set
Related: Brother of Oiler Granted Indefinite Leave of Absence
Related: 'Hopefully He's a Little Nicer to His Teammates': Connor McDavid Jokes About Newest Oiler
Around the NHL
Lightning's Steven Stamkos Hits Impressive Trick Shot
Bruins Need to Shoot Their Shot With Chychrun
Carter Hart's Future With Flyers Uncertain
Avalanche add depth with veteran forward
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMU5uye_Cb4[/embed]